October 02, 2008 12:08 am
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TAHLEQUAH — Starting your own business is a dream that the Cherokee Nation’s Micro Enterprise Adult/Youth Opportunity Loan Funds can help make come true.
The loan programs are available through the tribe’s Small Business Assistance Center. The SBAC provides Cherokee Nation citizens with technical, informational and financial assistance to help establish small businesses and to enhance economic growth among citizens and communities.
Participants must be a citizen of a federally recognized Native American tribe, live within the 14-county jurisdictional area of the Cherokee Nation, be at least 13 years of age and meet low income guidelines as defined by HUD.
Applicants must complete a written business plan to be considered for the funding, must have experience owning their own business and be in a position to contribute to the starting cost of their business with a cash investment, training or experience. Applicants under 18 must have a parent complete a credit application and sign the loan agreement.
The maximum loan amount is $25,000 and the maximum loan term is 10 years. Agricultural loan applications will be considered. Interest rates are set at the current New York Prime for applicants ages 25 and over and at New York Prime less three percent for participants ages 13-25, fixed for the term of the loan.
Information: 453-5536.
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